World

Before Leaving Cyprus, PM Modi Took Close Look At Ceasefire Line Where ‘Signs Of Turkish Occupation Remain Visible’

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday took a guided tour along the ceasefire line in the old city of Nicosia with Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides.

The Republic of Cyprus shared the moment on X, calling attention to the visible signs of Turkish occupation since 1974.

PM Modi’s visit to Cyprus, lasting nearly 24 hours, comes amid rising tensions between India and Turkey. Ankara continues to support Pakistan and recognises the so-called Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, contributing to strained relations with Nicosia.

PM Modi walks historic ceasefire line

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said the leaders walked through the resilient heart of Nicosia, symbolising Cyprus’s strength. PM Modi thanked President Christodoulides and said, “We look forward to closer people-to-people linkages with Cyprus!”

This marked the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Cyprus in over 20 years.

MEA Secretary (West) Tanmaya Lal highlighted that the visit deepens the India-Cyprus partnership and aligns with India’s broader strategic interests in the EU and the Mediterranean.

Several agreements were signed, reinforcing commitments to boost cooperation. The leaders reaffirmed their focus on deepening bilateral ties in areas such as trade, defence, technology, tourism, and connectivity.

Cyprus honours PM Modi with top civilian award

President Christodoulides conferred the Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III on PM Modi at the Presidential Palace. It marks PM Modi’s 23rd global honour, reflecting his growing stature as a global statesman.

PM Modi was welcomed with full ceremonial honours, including military band tributes and national anthems. He laid a wreath at the statue of Archbishop Makarios III before engaging in private talks with the Cypriot leader.

Christodoulides described India as a vital strategic ally and gateway to Europe. He expressed gratitude for India’s consistent support on the Cyprus issue and pledged Cyprus’s backing in India’s fight against international terrorism.

The joint declaration adopted during the visit reaffirmed Cyprus’s role as a reliable EU partner for India in the Mediterranean and broader Middle East. Cyprus will also use its upcoming EU Council Presidency in 2026 to deepen India-EU relations.

Also Read: Pakistan Denies Iranian General’s Claim Of Nuclear Support Against Israel

Ajaypal Choudhary

Recent Posts

Justice Vikram Nath Hails PM Modi’s Vision For Accessible & Technology-Driven Justice At NALSA Conference

Justice Vikram Nath praised PM Modi’s vision for inclusive, tech-driven justice and legal empowerment.

12 mins ago

Justice Surya Kant Calls For Empathetic Tech-Driven Legal Aid System At NALSA Conference

Justice Surya Kant urged empathetic, tech-driven legal aid reforms to make justice accessible and inclusive.

37 mins ago

SC To Live Stream National Conference On Legal Aid & Legal Services Day Celebrations

Supreme Court to live stream NALSA’s National Conference and Legal Services Day celebrations online.

1 hour ago

CJI Gavai Describes Legal Aid As ‘Gandhi Ji’s Talisman In Action’ At National Conference

CJI Gavai calls legal aid Gandhi Ji’s talisman in action, reaffirming justice for all.

1 hour ago

PM Modi Reaffirms Commitment To ‘Ease Of Justice’ For All

PM Modi stresses ‘Ease of Justice’ as key to ensuring equality, empowerment, and timely access.

2 hours ago

Fitness Expert Lists 10 Clear Signs You’re Overexerting At The Gym

NASM-certified trainer Alex highlights ten warning signs of overtraining at the Gym, from persistent soreness…

3 hours ago